Sonoran Coral Snake
Micruroides euryxanthus
A small, brightly banded desert coral snake found in Arizona and northwestern Mexico, distinguished by its blunt black snout.
- Venomous?
- Venomous
- Adult length
- 0.3-0.6 m (1-2 ft)
- Range
- Southwestern United States (Arizona, New Mexico) and northwestern Mexico
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Overview
The Sonoran coral snake is a small, secretive elapid inhabiting arid and semi-arid regions of the southwestern United States and adjacent Mexico. It is the only coral snake species found in Arizona and is far less commonly encountered than its eastern relatives.
It possesses potent neurotoxic venom typical of coral snakes, though bites are exceedingly rare due to its reclusive, fossorial habits and small, fixed fangs.
How to identify it
- Bands of red, black, and yellow (or white) encircling the entire body
- Black, rounded snout distinguishing it from mimicking species
- Red bands bordered directly by yellow bands, following the 'red touches yellow' rule
- Small head barely distinct from the neck
- Round pupils and smooth, glossy scales
Habitat & range
Inhabits desert scrub, rocky foothills, and semi-arid grasslands, often near washes or areas with loose soil for burrowing, in Arizona, New Mexico, and northwestern Mexico.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Secretive and fossorial, spending most of its time underground or under surface debris. Primarily nocturnal or crepuscular, especially active after rains. Feeds mainly on smaller snakes and lizards. Egg-laying.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Sonoran coral snake dangerous?
Yes, it is venomous with potent neurotoxic venom, though bites to humans are very rare due to its secretive nature.
How can you identify it?
Look for red, black, and yellow bands with red directly touching yellow, and a black, rounded snout.
Where does it live?
It is found in Arizona, New Mexico, and northwestern Mexico, in desert and semi-arid habitats.
What does it eat?
It preys mainly on small snakes and lizards.
Sonoran Coral Snake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Sonoran Coral Snake.
